It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the legendary Baba Franco da Gama.

On October 16th, 2025, the world lost a true legend with the passing of Baba Franco da Gama in Paris, France. Born on August 1st, 1962, Baba Franco lived a vibrant and extraordinary life that left a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to know him.

Baba was a man of many talents, a restaurant owner, music producer, and jewelry designer. He was known for his amazing taste in food, his brilliant beats, and his impeccable sense of style.

When he wasn’t creating mouth-watering dishes, crafting beautiful jewelry, or planning his next business, Baba could be found jet-setting around the world. He loved to travel and always had a new adventure on the horizon.

Baba Franco da Gama may have left this world, but his legacy lives on through his work and the countless lives he touched. His spirit will continue to inspire us all.

“What’s happening, Boss!”

That was one of my dad’s catchphrases.

His life was full of adventure, always traveling, exploring new countries and cities, and trying different cuisines.

When he arrived in L.A. in the early ’90s, he stepped into the restaurant business, which became a huge part of his life. But restaurants weren’t his only passion. He also loved making music and performing at concerts, even at Coachella.

Then, a little bit over 13 years ago, he found me on Facebook, though, funny enough, he was actually looking for my mum.

The following year 2012 was a big one for both of us. We were so happy knowing we’d finally meet, spend time together, and catch up on all those lost years.

During the time we had, he told me so many stories and taught me so much, about business, friendships, and life.

After he sold his last restaurant, Cowboys & Turbans, I asked him, “So, what’s your plan now?” He smiled and said, “Take it easy, relax, and travel.”

And that’s exactly what he did. He became a true world traveler. Almost every month, he was in a new country.

Every time I asked, “How are you, Dad? Where are you now?” he’d reply, “Life is good! Flying to Dubai next week or heading to Colombia with one of my closest friends.”

But of course, he couldn’t sit still for too long. He started a new business in Goa, where he found a new passion for food and opened a bakery and pizzeria.

I remember walking through Rome one day and seeing a pizzeria called In Pizza Veritas and I thought, “He would’ve loved that.”

His friendly, easygoing nature made it simple for him to make friends all over the world. Wherever he went, people remembered him with warmth and laughter.

In October, he went to Paris to see some of his oldest friends.

Sadly, that trip was his last. But he left this world doing what he loved most, traveling, eating good food, and being with friends.

No words I can find will ever do him justice. There’s so much more to tell about Baba Franco da Gama. I hope many of you will share your own stories about him, because there’s always something new to learn about my dad and our friend.

Life was good.

Next life is good.